Funded childcare is a Government initiative, offering working parents the opportunity of a set number of free childcare hours each year. The initiatives aim is to give children access to nurturing and high-quality childcare and education, easing the financial load on families. The government announced in the 2023 Spring Budget, that by 2025, parents in England will enjoy 30 hours of subsidised childcare per week for 38 weeks a year. This support starts when their little ones are just 9 months old and continues until they begin primary school, helping children flourish and parents feel supported.

The deadline to secure the code for your child’s government-funded childcare hours is the end of the month before a new term begins. For example, if your little one is starting in September, be sure to complete this by August 31st. This also applies to the summer and autumn terms. By applying early, you ensure a seamless experience, paving the way for your child’s bright early learning journey.

Tax free childcare is a government scheme that helps working parents with the cost of childcare. For every £8 you pay into your tax-free Childcare account, the government adds £2, up to a maximum of £2,000 per year (£4,000 for disabled children.

Eligibility

• Working parents (employed or self employed) who earn at least the National minimum wage for 16 hours a week.
• Have a child under the age of 12 (or under 17 if for a disabled child)
• Earn less than £100,000 per year (per parent)
• Are not receiving certain benefits.

How to apply and how it works

1. Create an account here
2. Pay into your tax-free Childcare account
3. Get government top up- for every £8 you deposit, the government adds £2
4. Pay your provider

Tax-free Childcare can be used alongside 15 or 30 hour Childcare funding.